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    Introducing "Meth Watch"
The Kansas Retailer Meth Watch Program is designed
to limit the accessibility of products containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine.
The Kansas
Department of Health and Environment, the
Kansas Bureau of Investigation
and a team of Kansas retailers encourage all retailers selling these products to
participate in this important initiative. If you've noticed an increase in theft
or large quantity purchases of ephedrine or pseudoephedrine-containing products,
your store is likely—and involuntarily—contributing to the deadly meth problem
in Kansas. Participation in Meth Watch will decrease theft and the likelihood of
"meth cookers" viewing your store as a supplier in drug production.
Over-The Counter Ingredients
Meth is an illegal, highly addictive drug produced
in clandestine laboratories using readily available products obtained from
retail, convenience and grocery stores. Over-the-counter cold and allergy
medications contain ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, the most critical ingredients
in the production of methamphetamine. The manufacturing process also uses
"precursors" such as lithium batteries, acetone, starter fluid, drain cleaner,
rock or table salt, lye, matchbooks, rubbing alcohol, muriatic acid and gasoline
additives. As you can see, these are items available in many stores. The
availability of these products contributes to the growing meth problem in our
state. Because meth users may become their own drug suppliers by becoming "meth
cookers," the dangers associated with the lbs themselves increase the urgency of
a retailer assistance program.
What's in it for Retailers?
Increased employee awareness of our state's meth
problem will provide your establishment the resources to be a responsible
steward and assist in the fight against crime and drugs. Meth Watch supports the
exchange of information with law enforcement officials and will reduce crime in
your store.
The Meth Watch program involves:
- Employee and management training
- Signage (decals, stickers, and shelf tags) that
serve the dual purpose of putting criminals on notice & letting
good
customers know your store is taking steps to reduce the production of meth
- Tips on strategic product placement to deter
theft
- Working closely with local law enforcement
agencies
For more information about our Retail Meth Watch program,
or to schedule a training for your business, please contact Larry George at
(785) 587-4372 or larry.george@pawnee.org.
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